New Releases for November 25, 2016

Inspired by Eno’s “vision of a psychedelic Africa”, English dub producer Adrian Sherwood and master Jamaican percussionist Bonjo Iyabinghi Noah have collaborated on a series of studio experiments under the African Head Charge moniker for over 35 years. This anthology documents the white hot heat of their first five years over five discs: My Life In A Hole In The Ground (1981), Environmental Studies (1982), Drastic Season (1983), Off The Beaten Track (1986), and Return Of The Crocodile (11 rare and unheard tracks from the period 1981-1986).

Amiina – Fantôma CD/2xLP+MP3 (Mengi)

Fantômas is melancholic and ethereal, yet full of suspense, pounding rhythms, and haunting melodies; A sound world full of contrasts, from darkness and utter terror, to heavenly melodies.

Violin, cello, drums, percussion, metallophone, table harp, ukulele, and electronics are the source material for the sound world of Amiina here, but it is expanded upon with their intelligent and imaginative usage of the different instruments and their varied and endless textures.

bAd bAd – bAd bAd CD/LP (S-s)

This Oakland, CA band is influenced by the pop-infused punk of Jay Reatard, one-chord Hawkwind power jams, and the highbrow playfulness of the Suburban Lawns. Disparate sounds, yes, but bAd bAd turns them into exciting buzzsaw-pop with Barrett/Floyd interludes.

Peter Baumann – Romance 76 [Reissue/1976] CD/LP (Bureau B)

Peter Baumann – Trans Harmonic Nights [Reissue/1979] CD/LP (Bureau B)

Reissues of Peter Baumann’s first two studio albums. From 1971 to 1977, he was a member of the legendary Berlin band Tangerine Dream. Sonic similarities to Tangerine Dream exist given the use of the same instruments, such as a modular synthesizer system and a mellotron. The minimal composition’s airiness lends the unusual synth sounds space to unfold in all their glory, a state of affairs for which David Bowie is partially responsible.

Black Rainbows stand with one leg in the middle of a huge pile of Kyuss albums while the second leg is picking flowers totally zonked in a psychedelic wonderland. Heavy and fuzzy, Carmina Diabolo is reminiscent of the 2000s Dutch scene – like Candybar Planet, Cowboys & Aliens and Desert Sons. For fans of old school stoner rock.

A collection of tracks spanning Cluster’s first eight studio albums, recorded between 1971 and 1981.

Darcy’s – Centerfold CD/LP (Arts & Crafts)

Recently released on vinyl – now available on CD. “10 sugary, glimmering songs that pull together glossy production and airtight hooks, including funk-tinged summer anthem ‘Miracle,’ suburban romantic saga ‘San Diego, 1988’ and the sparkling, desert-creased heartache of ‘Arizona Hwy.’ The album, inspired by the shameless maximalist lean of 1980s classics like Back To The Future and Chinatown and the era’s grandiose pop efforts, be they from Bowie or the Bee Gees.” – KillBeatMusic

Terry Dolan – Terry Dolan CD/LP+MP3 (High Moon)

A masterpiece of early- ‘70s rock ‘n’ roll – previously unreleased. Produced (and played on) by keyboard legend Nicky Hopkins (Rolling Stones, The Kinks) and British session ace Pete Sears (Rod Stewart), Terry Dolan is the missing link between the ecstatic, guitar-driven sound of the San Francisco ballroom scene and the increasingly expansive feel of the west coast singer/songwriters. With a collection of simple but powerful songs, the album captures Terry’s dual nature; an East Coast folkie with a penchant for soul-stirring rock ‘n’ roll. Featuring epic guitar duels intertwining with driving piano and organ, it anticipated the jam band genre by twenty years. “A historic gem — incredible that WB left it on the vine. This is the one that might have sealed his reputation.” — David Fricke (Rolling Stone)

Einstürzende Neubauten – Greatest Hits CD/2xLP (Potomik)

Einstürzende Neubauten have discovered sounds beyond the pain barrier, the beauty of dissonance and the aesthetics of the scrapyard. They are regarded as the most important engines in the development of new musical strategies; Hardly another German band has characterized the music landscape as lastingly. Their influence on the music world was, and is, as great as their timeless character. Once fully set in motion in the early 1980s, Einstürzende Neubauten have pressed on regardless.

Elephant Stone – Ship Of Fools CD/LP+MP3 (Burger)

Evolution, change, artistic growth, exploration — these words are associated with all great rock and roll bands, but they’re quickly becoming synonymous with Elephant Stone, the Montreal trio lead by singer/bassist/songwriter/sitar player Rishi Dhir.

Exit Verse – Grant No Glory CD/LP (Ernest Jenning)

Singer/guitarist Geoff Farina (Karate, Secret Stars, Glorytellers) teamed up with drummer John Dugan (Chisel, Edsel) and bassist Pete Cook (Brokeback, Tight Phantoms) to form Chicago’s Exit Verse in 2013. This second set of taut rockers from Exit Verse certainly sounds born from the road (Foghat reference intentional), as each song unfolds with the precision and vitality that a rock band discovers steadily and methodically, city after city.

Multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Slim Gaillard’s joyous music appealed to adults and little children alike, with songs about love, traveling, potato chips, beer, and everything in between. Searching For You: The Lost Singles Of McVouty (1958-1974) is the first collection of new Gaillard music officially released with the endorsement of the Gaillard family in decades. Very little is known about the label sources (i.e., Putti Records, SGM Records, Delgado, Blue Chip Records, etc.), but they all seem to have been made for companies likely owned by Slim that he was sending out to A&R men and radio stations trying to score regional hits. Most tracks in this collection come from co-producer Tom Samuels, who won a series of eBay auctions containing rare 45s.

Glitter Wizard – Hollow Earth Tour CD (Heavy Psych Sounds)

Glitter Wizard is a band of California riff-lords pillaging the best of vintage hard rock while keeping their laser eyes on the future, creating a unique brand of oddball psychedelia.

Al Green – Al Green Is Love [Reissue/1975] CD (Fat Possum)

Al Green – Full Of Fire [Reissue/1976] CD (Fat Possum)

Al Green – Truth N’ Time [Reissue/1978] CD (Fat Possum)

A handful of Green’s Hi Records releases are back in print on CD courtesy of Fat Possum.

Cowboy In Sweden features Lee’s trademark singular synthesis of cowboy rambles, rockabilly rhythms and symphonic pop. Includes previously unheard versions of “Pray Them Bars Away” and “Easy & Me” as a bonus.

His Name Is Alive – Patterns Of Light CD/LP (London London)

Having been invited to perform at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Switzerland by one of the scientists, HNIA spent a year studying particle physics and then created Patterns Of Light. The scientist, Dr. James Beacham, was asked to “fact check for bad data, misquotes, dragons, pseudoscience and to make sure the witchcraft to physics ratio wouldn’t be too embarrassing,” he agreed and soon sent pages of notes, screenshots, event displays and also recommended books and videos. Patterns Of Light is the result of this exchange of information.

Jack Lee – Bigger Than Life CD/LP (Alive)

Fab collection from enigmatic singer/songwriter (ex-The Nerves) — 23 solo cuts including his 1976 classic “Hanging On The Telephone,” later a hit for Blondie.

Letherette – Last Night On The Planet CD/LP (Ninja Tune)

Last Night On The Planet runs the gamut from hip-hop (featuring raps from Rejjie Snow and Stones Throw’s Pyramid Vritra), to straight-up four-to-the-floor house tracks and deeper, introspective downtempo moments (blessed by Jed & Lucia of Ubiquity Records).

Mica Levi & Oliver Coates – Remain Calm CD (Slip)

A brand new collaborative work from Mica Levi (aka Micachu) and Oliver Coates, Remain Calm showcases both musicians’ backgrounds in classical composition as well as their restless impulse to blur the boundaries between contemporary genres, from grime to techno to drone.

Man & The Echo – Man & The Echo CD/LP (1965/PIAS America)

“Man & The Echo are here to inject rebellion back into rock and roll: with validated remarks on unhappy political control, a celebration of free-sprit, cracking guitar rhythms and elevating sound.” – Gigslutz

Martyrdöd – List CD/LP (Southern Lord)

Swedish crust punk.

Amy Miller – Solid Gold CD (Kill Rock Stars)

Amy is a regular on SiriusXM’s Bennington Show and is also known for her turn on NBC’s most recent season of Last Comic Standing. An Oakland, California native, Miller came up in the west coast comedy scene. She’s a regular at venues like Cobb’s Comedy Club and the San Francisco Punch Line. She also made a name for herself while living in Portland, winning Helium Comedy Club’s Portland’s Funniest Comedian contest as well as being voted Portland’s Funniest in both 2013 and 2015 by the Willamette Week, which she also writes a column for. There’s a reason that Roseanne Barr referred to Miller as “a star” and “a contender for the next alpha female comedian;” She’s quick, honest and of course, very funny. She seems poised to hit it big, so do yourself a favor and jump on the bandwagon early so you can look cool in front of your friends.

Six core Mötley Crüe catalog albums on both CD and 180gm vinyl (Too Fast For Love, Shout At The Devil, Theatre Of Pain, Girls, Girls, Girls, Dr. Feelgood, Saints Of Los Angeles), copies of The End: Live From Los Angeles on both DVD and live CD, a hardcover photo book, exclusive

lithograph photo prints of the band, custom Mick Mars guitar picks, and a Final Tour laminate pass, all enclosed in a tombstone shaped box packaging.

Nouvelle Vague’s I Could Be Happy adds the novelty of self-written tunes to the band’s usual relaxed covers from superior rock and pop catalogues. Songs from The Ramones, The Cure and others get radical makeovers. Four originals in three languages in the band’s familiar styles close out the album. [Vinyl edition due December 9].

Prevost is a top-notch songwriter and a cool rock ‘n’ roll singer, and has a deep understanding of the roots of his music.

Sean Price – Gorilla 3xCD/6xLP (Duck Down)

Sean Price was a popular rapper, hailing from Brooklyn, NY, celebrated for his work as one-half of the group, Heltah Skeltah, and one-eighth of the supergroup, Boot Camp Clik. He passed away in August, 2015 at the age of 43. Three of his solo albums are collected here: Monkey Barz (2005), Jesus Price Supastar (2007), and Mic Tyson (2012).

Primordial – Gods To The Godless CD (Metal Blade)

First live album from the Irish extreme metal band. Their sound blends black metal and doom metal with Celtic music.

Prince – Prince 4Ever 2xCD (WB)

Prince4ever is the sixth compilation album of Prince’s Warner Bros. studio work, and the first official posthumous release (it arrives more than ten years after the previous best-of compilation Ultimate). It comprises only Warner Bros.-era recordings under the name Prince from 14 studio albums, released originally between 1978 and 1993, as well as the standalone single track “Gotta Stop (Messin’ About)” and two songs which previously debuted on The Hits 1 and The Hits 2 (“Nothing Compares 2 U” and “Peach” respectively). The compilation includes one previously unreleased track, “Moonbeam Levels” (originally recorded in 1982 during the 1999 sessions and later considered for the never released Rave Unto The Joy Fantastic album). Of the 40 tracks on the compilation, “Take Me With U,” “Paisley Park,” “Batdance,” “Mountains,” “Girls & Boys,” “Glam Slam” and the previously-unreleased “Moonbeam Levels” had not appeared on a previous studio compilation album in any form.

The Proletariat – Soma Holiday [Reissue/1983] CD/LP (S-s)

In 1983, the release of The Proletariat’s debut Soma Holiday was a shocker—while American hardcore punk was becoming more generic, The Proletariat unleashed something strikingly original. The album’s opening is a call to arms: the primitive, militaristic bass guitar and drums are sliced with razor-sharp guitar dissidence and vocals full of spit and bite. Avant-garde while remaining tuneful, their debut is considered one of the most brilliant albums to come out the early ‘80s American hardcore scene.

Radian – On Dark Silent Off CD/LP+MP3 (Thrill Jockey)

Recent. “Over the course of their first four albums, Radian perfected a painterly approach to sound construction. What makes the instrumental Austrian trio exceptional is its ability to wrest seemingly endless possibilities by fine-tuning the grain of every sound. On their fifth album On Dark Silent Off, Radian take the tactile dimension of their music even further while also introducing groove and drama basically for the first time. On Dark Silent Off bristles with a passion that you don’t hear on their back catalog. It’s not like past Radian records are stiff, but the band always sounded slightly removed as it supplied you with a constant flow of sensory input. This time, they connect with your heart too.” [8.0] — Pitchfork

Platinum-selling British singer/songwriter Rumer’s fourth album This Girl’s In Love: A Bacharach And David Songbook features some of Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s most memorable co-compositions and sees Rumer — described as the heir to Dusty Springfield and Karen Carpenter (Q Magazine) — bring her extensive experience and singular talent to bear on this enticing effort. Recorded at the renowned Capitol Studios with accomplished arranger, composer and orchestrator, Rob Shirakbari, This Girl’s In Love includes an appearance by Bacharach himself on piano.

Conrad Schnitzler & Schneider TM – Con-Struct CD/LP+CD (Bureau B)

“I wanted to get as close to his spirit as possible, so I created a musical situation as if we were actually collaborating together in the same room, with Conrad playing his pre-recorded sound-files or modular system and me dubbing and processing it live on the fly – almost as if it was a live-concert situation” said Schneider TM of his involvement with Con-Struct. “Next to many other aspects of Schnitzler’s vast oeuvre, I am fond of the noisy, poly-harmonic, poly-rhythmic and sometimes quite humorous minimalism of his music, as well as his way of using chance, which often leads to magical and raw beauty. There are no other sounds on this record except for ones created by Schnitzler, sent through my system and processed live.”

Various Artists – New Orleans Funk: The Original Sound Of Funk Vol. 4 CD/2xLP+MP3 (Soul Jazz)

Subtitled Voodoo Fire In New Orleans. Volume four of this crate-digging excursion into the Crescent City vaults delves deep into the roots and history of the voodoo world of New Orleans funk and as ever features a stellar selection of killer rare funk and soul. The album is jam-packed with serious break-heavy funk tunes from classic New Orleans artists including Eddie Bo, Betty Harris, Dave Bartholomew, Johnny Adams and Eldridge Holmes (with the ever-present Allen Toussaint and The Meters as always behind the scenes), and more.

“Canadian singer/songwriter Martha Wainwright considers her fourth solo album and seventh studio record, Goodnight City, to be a turning point in her musical career and emotional state alike. “Most [of my] songs come from a sense of sadness,” muses the 40-year-old, whose last solo album, 2012’s Come Home To Mama, addressed grief in the wake of the death of her mother, folk musician Kate McGarrigle. “But maybe for the first time, there is more joy and lightness on this album,” she adds. “I think because with age has come some comfort and a sense of strength—I am more hopeful.” Though collaborative and stylistically diverse, Wainwright’s elegant, vibrational vocals work within each track on Goodnight City, unifying the album with her powerfully distinct multifaceted emotional spectrum. In listening, one feels a collective comfort—it is a work of community, togetherness, family, and change for the better.” – Nuvo Magazine

Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootleg is a companion to Welch’s Grammy-nominated debut, Revival, and features 21 outtakes, alternate versions, and demos from the making of Revival, including eight previously unheard songs. “‘Mostly I hear experimentation, trial and error.’ Gillian Welch is recalling her and partner Dave Rawlings 1996 Americana landmark debut, Revival. Her modesty is unwarranted. This is a revealing 21-track collection of outtakes, alternate versions, mixes and demos, some equal, if not superior, to the versions that made the album. These dark, mostly stripped-back tracks, including eight songs previously unreleased, expand our understanding of that signature recording, not least the road to her true voice. The gossamer ‘Paper Wings (Alternate Mix)’ floats in pedal steel heaven, while the home demo of ‘Tear My Stillhouse Down’ crackles with self-loathing, anger and guilt. ‘Red Clay Halo,’ later to appear on Time (The Revelator), also didn’t make it. It was in good company; ‘Dry Town,’ cut from Johnny Cash’s cloth, was another. Warts and all reissues can test the most loyal, but these gems, albeit flawed, simply fascinate.’” – The Irish Times

Witchery – In His Infernal Majesty’s Service CD (Century Media)

Sixth album from the Swedish blackened metallers.

This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:

Blue Rodeo – 1000 Arms LP (Telesoul)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “Blue Rodeo may be three decades into their career but they’re still finding new and refreshing ways to tackle their music and it shows on this dazzling new uptempo record.” – CBC

Errol Brown – Orthodox Dub LP (Dubstore)

Miraculously rare and seriously obscure killer dubs — one of the very few hardcore ‘70s dub albums mixed by Errol Brown.

Brujeria – Pocho Aztlan 2xLP (Nuclear Blast)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. First new album in 16 years from the death metal/grindcore band. Limited green color vinyl pressing also available.

Built To Spill – Ancient Melodies Of The Future [Reissue/2001] LP (1972)

The Caretaker – An Empty Bliss Beyond This World [Reissue/2011] LP (History Always Favours The Winner)

Limited repress. The second album from James Leyland Kirby’s alias The Caretaker. By now regarded an absolute classic of haunted ambient music, An Empty Bliss Beyond This World returns the doddering protagonist to the deserted ballroom, wandering its waxed floor and dilapidated grandeur in an attempt to capture an era which has long since disappeared but still haunts the atmosphere.

Cat-Iron – Sings Blues And Hymns [Reissue/1958] LP (Exit Stencil)

Originally released on the Smithsonian Folkways label in 1958, this forgotten classic is getting its first US vinyl pressing since its original release. A classic of American blues/folk, Sings Blues And Hymns presents what seem to be the two sides of singer Cat-Iron’s repertoire: that of the blues musician and that of the converted Christian.

Jay Chattaway – Maniac [Reissue/1981] LP (Death Waltz)

Vinyl reissue of Jay Chattaway’s soundtrack to the 1980 classic Maniac. A phenomenal, sleazy synth score from Jay Chattaway, perfectly capturing the unease and grime of Times Square in it’s pre-Disney clean up era.

Cotton Mather – Kontiki [1997] LP+MP3 (Star Apple Kingdom)

Limited edition yellow color vinyl pressing of the critically lauded 1997 sophomore album from the Austin-based Power Pop band founded in the early 1990’s by Robert Harrison.

Official release of the legendary four demo recordings from Florida’s influential progressive death metal band, including two previously unreleased recordings from the long lost vocal audition with Brian DeNeffe (Viogression) included on a bonus 7”.

Danava – At Midnight You Die 7” (Tee Pee)

Portland fretboard rippers Danava return with the bloodthirsty new single. Like Di’Anno-era Iron Maiden played at 45rpm, the dangerous track gushes with the highly synchronized guitar wizardry that is the iron backbone of the group’s cultish hard rock.

DNA – A Taste Of DNA [Reissue/1981] 12” (Superior Viaduct)

Originally released in 1981, A Taste Of DNA remains a primary source for no wave archaeologists. Recommended for fans of The Contortions’ Buy and Red Crayola’s The Parable Of Arable Land.

Recently released on CD and cassette – now available on vinyl. Nicole Dollanganger has been quietly crafting her own world since 2012. Over a number of self-released albums recorded mostly in her bedroom and bathroom, her signature style of gothic folk is inspired by countless influences, none more than the archetype of the love song. Dollanganger’s signature lyricism is front-and-center — usually accompanied by barely more than a few lonesome chords, narratives are idyllic, yet haunting — dream-like, yet startlingly real. Now available are two early-yet-masterful pieces of Nicole Dollanganger’s catalog on CD and cassette: 2013’s Ode To Dawn Wiener: Embarrassing Love Songs and 2014’s Observatory Mansions. The thesis of Ode To Dawn Wiener is as straightforward as its subtitle, but over ten songs it becomes clear that there is much more to these songs than what they offer at the surface. Observatory Mansions shows Nicole’s songwriting progressing, with reverb-soaked guitars, echoing synths and stirring samples coming together only to intensify the pull of her stories of love, violence, sexuality and death — all of which would be horrifying if they weren’t so enchanting — a recurring yet poetic tension in Nicole Dollanganger’s world. Limited color vinyl pressing.

Mike Doughty – The Heart Watches While The Brain Burns LP (Snackbar)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “The former frontman of alt rock band Soul Coughing, Mike Doughty is on a constant mission to strive for the new. His ninth, and most recent solo album, The Heart Watches While The Brain Burns, was recorded during the time he moved from New York, which had served as his home base since the 1980s, to Memphis Tennessee, which he described as a ‘fascinating, mysterious town.’ ‘I Can’t Believe I Found You In That Town,’ the first track from the album, was inspired by a failed attempt at romance in England’s north. The song is a rollicking good tune, with Mike’s raspy, almost drawling vocal, and the driving guitar and country style drumming propel the song with a great force right through to the end – when all drops and you’re left with Mike’s vocals alone – poignant and forlorn, suggesting the love has ended.” – Essentially Pop

Arthur Doyle With His New Quiet Screamers – First House LP (Amish)

First House is the final recordings from free jazz legend and Birmingham, Alabama native, Arthur Doyle. The LP was recorded live at the Stone July 11, 2012 and these six pieces are backed by His New Quiet Screamers, a Brooklyn-based ensemble adding muscle and movement to Doyle’s always already free, non-linear saxophone, flute and vocal lines.

This limited edition color 7” vinyl release features Sol Invictus album cut “Cone Of Shame” backed with the Calcitonin Mix of lead single “Motherf**ker” by JG Thirwell. Limited gold, green, red, and clear color variations were pressed.

Flume – Skin Companion EP I 12” (Transgressive/Mom + Pop Music)

Flume released Skin earlier this year and had to make some hard choices with his tracklisting, so to mend those he’s presenting some that didn’t make the cut in these neat follow up EPs – filled with tracks he wrote around the same time.

Limited blue color vinyl pressing. “When he’s not watching classic Conan O’Brien-produced Simpsons episodes, replacing s’s with z’s to make proze seem breezier and more affable, or playing ‘Sonic Spinball,’ fuzzed-out bliss-pop duder Rikky Gage — aka Free Weed — can probably be found compulsively making tapes and digital releases with associated outfits such as White Fang, The Memories, and Unkle Funkle. So it’s no surprise that, a year or so after releasing his debut full-length Introducing, Gage is back to hit us up with some more of that good, nostalgic, warble-y Free Weed action: this time via an action-packed, six-track record of ANY classic-Simpsons fan and Sega Genesis gamer’s favorite 1990s alt-rock jams.” – Tiny Mix Tapes

Erroll Garner – Ready Take One 2xLP (Sony Legacy)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Erroll Garner was one of the great American Jazz pianists of the 20th century, yet very few know his name or his music. Ready Take One is the first completely new Garner studio album in nearly 25 years. Recorded during a prolific five-year period beginning in 1967, the album’s 14 songs are previously unreleased, having only recently been discovered.

Greyhounds – Change Of Pace LP (Ardent Music)

Released last April on CD – now available on vinyl. Change Of Pace is Greyhounds’ second collection of funky, blues-and-R&B-laced rock & roll. Where their last album, 2014’s Accumulator, focused on internal emotional turmoil and personal relationships, Change Of Pace draws its inspiration from the outside world and the struggles the duo sees every day in Texas and on the road.

Ghostwriter – Ghostwriter LP (S-s)

Odd rock & roll from Orland, California, Ghostwriter lurks in the dust-caked shadows of rusted old cars and “obsolete,” solid state, electronic instruments. The Chrome-meets-psych sounds of the Nothing People is there, with some haunted rockabilly à la Alan Vega, Residents-like wooziness, and something that conjures the words “paranoid closet.”

Keiji Haino – 1973 Live – Milky Way [1993] LP (Black Truffle)

Originally released as a limited CD in Japan by the short lived Mom ‘N’ Dad Productions in 1993, this release documents a blistering live performance recorded in Kyoto in 1973, five years before the formation of the first line-up of Fushitsusha, and eight years before Haino’s first solo album.

The Hidden Cameras – Home On Native Land LP (Outside Music)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Joel Gibb is the lead singer, songwriter and choir captain of the band of folk art rockers The Hidden Cameras. Since forming in Toronto in 2001, Gibb and his gang of musical provocateurs have created music and live performances legendary for their raucous celebration of freedom, sexuality and sound. Home On Native Land was written and recorded over ten years by Gibb with friends, bandmates and icons including Mary Margaret O’Hara, Rufus Wainwright, Feist, Bahamas, Ron Sexsmith and Neil Tennant. Together they form a chorus of voices over a score of dulcet tones and cool banjo rock.

Tommy Jay – Tommy Jay’s Tall Tales Of Trauma 2xLP (Assophon)

An expanded reissue of Tommy Jay’s Tall Tales Of Trauma, originally released on cassette in 1986. “A singer/songwriter par excellence, Tommy Jay ably forged a hybrid of pre-speedball Stephen Stills with post Iron Cross-headed Lou Reed, the results of which come across as both effortless and visionary.” — Tom Lax Lynx

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Directed by two-time Academy Award winner, Barbara Kopple, Miss Sharon Jones! follows the dynamic frontwoman through her 2013 battle with cancer and her triumphant return to the stage around the release of Give The People What They Want. Much like the film, the soundtrack gives you an intimate, candid look into the life of a woman who refused to be defined by the challenges she faced. (Sharon Jones’ passed away November 18, 2016.) This vinyl edition includes the bonus track “His Eye On The Sparrow.”

Kaoruwada – Ninja Scroll [OST/1993] LP (Milan)

Ninja Scroll is the landmark 1993 anime film from Yoshiaki Kawajiri (Vampire Hunter D: Bloodust, The Animatrix). Set in feudal Japan, the wandering ninja mercenary Jubei becomes drawn into the plot of eight demons plotting to overthrow the Shogun. Groundbreaking in its depictions of swordplay and animated action sequences, Ninja Scroll stands with Akira and Ghost In The Shell as a classic of the genre. Kaoru Wada’s timeless score frames Jubei’s adventure across a fantastical Japan with a stirring mix of brass, trembling strings, and traditional woodwinds.

Lamb Of God – The Duke 12” (Epic)

Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Two new tracks from the Virginia metal band plus three live jams.

Lucius – Pulling Teeth 10” (Mom + Pop)

Two new tracks on the A-side with an etching on Side B. Salmon pink color vinyl.

The Lumineers – Cleopatra 2xLP (Dualtone)

Deluxe double slate color vinyl LP pressing with exclusive die cut cover. “It’s been a lingering 4 years, but Denver natives The Lumineers have finally resurfaced with new material, their highly anticipated sophomore release, Cleopatra. And it’s the home of 11 striking tracks, from delicate narratives, to haunting poems of songs; you’re truly in for a touching ride. Aptly named title track ‘Cleopatra’ is the perfect taste of the material that makes up this new LP, with it’s slow building beat, infectious chorus and an intriguing tale, each of its elements plays a role in tracks to come. Take the incredibly smooth, and even catchier, ‘Ophelia,’ crooning, ‘Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind girl since the flood. / Ophelia, heaven help a food who falls in love.’ And then, stripping back the padding, ‘Gun Song,’ ‘Angela’ and ‘Sick In The Head’ feature a poem-like quality to them, with nothing but a simplistic combination of melody and beat as the backing for the vocals. While these don’t necessarily make an immediate impact like some of the higher tempo tunes, their lyrical quality more than makes up for it once you delve deeper. The entire album is truly a stunning journey.” – Renowned For Sound

Chris Masuak & The Viveiro Wave Riders – Brujita LP (Snap!!)

Aussie rock legend Chris “Klondike” Masuak returns with his first album since 2011. A member of pioneering Aussie’s Radio Birdman’s classic line-up, Masuak has been involved in some of Australia’s most noted rock bands, including Screaming Tribesmen, New Christs and Hitmen.

Memphis May Fire – This Light I Hold LP+MP3 (Rise)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the Texas metalcore outfit. Features guest appearances by Papa Roach’s Jacoby Shaddix and former My American Heart vocalist Larry Soliman. Limited color vinyl pressing.

Mistur – In Memoriam LP (Karisma)

Released last May on CD – now available on vinyl. In Memoriam is a must for all fans of Windir and the Sognametal style, and will appeal to fans Amon Amarth, Insomnium and Månegarm.

Muddy Magnolias – Broken People LP (Third Generation)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. American music is a mile-wide river that beckons black and white, urban and rural, dreamer and doer alike to launch their vessels. All the streams of style and genre flow into it; its tributaries are blues and jazz, mountain and folk, rock, soul and R&B. The release of the debut album by Muddy Magnolias, Broken People, marks the launch of a great new vessel onto that waterway. The album showcases a confluence of style and sound as colorful as it is unlikely, steeped in that river of influence, yet bracingly fresh. With Broken People, Jessy Wilson and Kallie North take us on an 11-song journey with its origins in two widely divergent backgrounds that came together in a friendship and creative partnership with world-changing resonance.

Nightmares On Wax – Ground Floor 12” (Warp)

This new EP is back-to-back dance floor jams, though somewhat a departure from his recent work.

The Olympics – Doin’ The Hully Gully [Reissue/1960] LP (Cornbread)

Vinyl reissue of the debut album by of the great L.A.-based acts who managed to score regional hits on the West Coast by balancing upbeat and often humorous novelty R&B tunes with those about popular dances of the day.

Vinnie Paz – Cornerstone Of The Corner Store LP (Enemy Soil)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Vinnie Paz, the dynamic front man of Jedi Mind Tricks and orchestrator of the supergroup Army Of The Pharaohs, returns with his third full-length solo album. According to Paz, the sound and aesthetic of ”Cornerstone” is a heavy dose of grit and grime; “It’s a dirty record by design. It’s an homage to that era I grew up in.” Indeed, Cornerstone is filled with the type of ferocious rhymes and snarling delivery that the Philadelphia MC is known for. The growl is thick, the vocal weaponry is heavy, and Paz delivers each track with his unique blend of raw street gospel and philosophical consciousness.

The Piano Guys – Uncharted LP (Masterworks)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The Piano Guys, the unstoppable classical/pop crossover music stylists, return with their first new studio album since 2014.

Richard Pinhas – De l’Un et du Multiple [1996] 2xLP (Bam Balam)

Available for the first time on vinyl. This solo album was recorded at his home studio in Paris between June and September of 1995. Solo guitar and processing – Drone electronics with use of a Metatronic Loop system.

44 minutes of live, progressive, psychedelic, electronics. Both musicians form a perfectly balanced communion of excesses, extending their performing skills in many ways. Richard Pinhas, founder of ’70s legends Heldon, is one of France’s best-known experimental musicians. He is a key figure in development of rock music processing with electronic music. Yoshida Tatsuya is one of the most important musicians of the Japanese experimental music scene, spearheading at least a half dozen of that country’s most important groups, including Ruins, Sax Ruins, Koenji Hyakkei, and Korekyojinn.

“Let’s Pretend We’re Married” was originally featured on Prince’s 1982 album 1999. It was the final single pulled from the album. The 12” features an extended mix of the title track backed by “Irresistible Bitch.” “Raspberry Beret” was the first single from the 1985 album Around The World In A Day. The 12” single features an extended mix of plus “She’s Always In My Hair” (Extended).

Prince & The New Power Generation – Diamonds And Pearls [Reissue/1991] LP (WB)

Vinyl reissue of Prince’s sparkling 13th album, recorded with his backing band The New Power Generation. Includes “Cream,” “Gett Off” and “Money Don’t Matter 2 Night.”

Radiohead – Moon Shaped Pool 2xLP+2xCD (XL)

Deluxe case bound double LP + double CD edition. Inspired by the albums for 78rpm shellac records in the library of La Fabrique, France, this special pressing of Moon Shaped Pool comes pressed on two extra heavyweight 12″s with two compact discs (featuring two extra tracks) and housed in a gorgeous book style case with 32 pages of artwork from longtime Radiohead collaborator Stanley Donwood. To add to the uniqueness of this pressing, there is a recording tape bellyband applied which is a piece of a Radiohead ½ inch master tape from an actual recording session.

Rebelution – Live At Red Rocks LP (Easy Star)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. On June 3, 2016, roots reggae band Rebelution graced the stage at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. The eventful night was the launch party for the band’s latest album, Falling Into Place, and their summer tour. Rebelution has made Red Rocks an annual summer tour stop since their first appearance at Reggae on the Rocks in 2012, and performed again at the one-day festival in 2013 and 2014, the latter as the festival’s headlining act. As Billboard writes, “Their dynamic brand of original music weaves hypnotic threads of alt-rock and pop, retro-funk, blues, dub, even traditional Middle Eastern strains. Rachmany’s expressive voice wraps his soul-searching lyrics in beguiling melodies.”

Steve Reich/Terry Riley – Six Pianos/Keyboard Study #1 LP+MP3 (Film)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. After the widely noticed performance at the Acht Brücken Festival 2016 at Cologne’s Philharmonic Hall, Gregor Schwellenbach, Hauschka, Erol Sarp (of Grandbrothers), Daniel Brandt and Paul Frick (both of Brandt Brauer Frick) and John Kameel Farah release their interpretation of Steve Reich’s Six Pianos as a studio recording.

Travis Scott – Birds In The Trap Sing McKnight 2xLP (Epic)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Over the course of 14 tracks, Travis threads together an engaging, enthralling, and epic patchwork of anesthetized and apocalyptic production, mind-numbing raps, and glorious hooks punctuated by an A-list cast of collaborators. Kendrick Lamar delivers hard-hitting and hypnotic bars in the middle of “Goosebumps” just before a signature chantable chorus. “The Ends” veers between a haunting hum and a verse-for-verse tandem of our protagonist and Andre 3000 of OutKast. “Way Back” drips into a searing guitar solo as “Sweet Sweet” fires off one of his stickiest hooks to date, while The Weeknd and Travis serve up a smooth send-off on “Wonderful.”

SIANspheric – Somnium [1998] 2xLP (Sonic Unyon)

“Armed with a sinewy intellect and their own brand of gaseous post-rock prescience, they burned a path through the sonic stratosphere. The waves of gentle turbulence and ethereal beauty are still as hypnotic and cavalier as they were on the first listen. A stoner classic.’” (#40 on Top 50 Canadian Albums of All Time) — Chart Attack

‘”Sianspheric hit back huge with their trippy take on indie drone. Bolstered by the guitar onslaught of Sean Ramsay and pedal wizardry of Ryan Ferguson, what comes next is bound to be pretty spectacular.’” – blogTO

Slowly Rolling Camera – All Things LP (Edition)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Epic in both scale and sound, Slowly Rolling Camera’s All Things builds on their highly acclaimed self-titled album and EP Into the Shadow. At the heart of the group is the exuberant, powerful and dynamic voice of Dionne Bennett — a commanding vocal presence whose multifaceted gospel lead will send shivers down your spine. Keyboard player Dave Stapleton crafts sumptuous melodies and strikes the perfect balance between the experimental and the band’s deep soul origins. Soundscape artist and producer on electronics Deri Roberts provides the substance and backbone of the group sound and Elliot Bennett generates his unmistakable combination of energetic drive and intricate groove from the drum stool.

Sodom – In The Sign Of Evil [Reissue/1985] LP (Wax Maniax)

New vinyl reissue of Sodom’s cult debut includes eight-page full color 12″ x 12″ booklet packed with previously unpublished photos hand-picked by the band, plus liner notes from Tankard frontman Gerre as well as Snakepit magazine founder Frank Stöver featuring first-hand accounts from the early days of Sodom.

Soundtrack – Deathgasm 2xLP (Death Waltz)

Death Waltz Recording Company are proud to present the soundtrack to the greatest fusion of heavy metal and horror since 1985: Deathgasm. Shredded through the record are some of the greatest metal bands ever that you’ve never heard of, straight from the underground. Thrill to the skull-crushing fury of Axeslasher, Beast Wars, Nunslaughter, Elm Street, The Wretched End, and legendary Norwegian black metal act Emperor. 180gm color vinyl (one transparent red, one frosted clear with black smoke).

Southern Culture On The Skids – Electric Pinecones LP+MP3 (Kudzu)

Now available on vinyl. Rambunctious 2016 album from North Carolina trio, serving up a fresh bunch of hillibilly-garage-surf gems. Contains 11 new tunes plus a remake of their classic “Swamp Fox.” Limited color vinyl pressing.

Sparks – Sparks [Reissue/1971] LP (1972)

Sparks’ eponymous 1971 debut presents the singular compositional, lyrical and singing voices of Ron and Russell Mael fully formed. Originally released under the moniker Halfnelson, Sparks’ prescient debut prefigures Queen, power pop, and especially Southern California’s late ’70s skinny-tie explosion. It’s a landmark of Todd Rungren’s early production career, and clearly the backing band of brothers Earle and Jim Mankey brought Sparks’ pop idiosyncrasies to their later work with The Dickies, The Quick and 20 / 20. Infectious, daring, and delightfully flaunting camp theatricality throughout, Sparks is the first installment in an unparalleled series of some of the decade’s most classic albums.

Svarte Greiner – Moss Garden LP+MP3 (Miasmah)

Erik K. Skodvin returns with a focused album under his Svarte Greiner moniker, releasing two side-long cinematic compositions, continuing where he left off with Black Tie.

MasakatsuTakagi – The Boy & The Beast [OST] LP (Milan)

The Boy And The Beast is a Japanese animated blockbuster directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda (Wolf Children, Summer Wars). He is part of the new generation of directors of high quality Japanese animated features. This beautifully crafted animated adventure features a gorgeous and adventurous score by Kyoto-based composer Masakatsu Takagi who previously collaborated with Mamoru Hosoda on Wolf Children.

Tasseomancy – Do Easy LP+MP3 (Bella Union)

Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Tasseomancy is Canadian twin sisters Sari and Romy Lightman. For the seasoned loners, stoners, and lackadaisically laid, Do Easy was written as a dead-beat anthem for a generation who was told that anything is possible after the possibility slows. Serene, strange and magnetically sung, it honors its freethinking forebears without being weighed down by them, creating immersive worlds of loving allusion. Soft synths and crystalline harmonies merge hypnotically on “Dead Can Dance And Neil Young,” an invitation to “fade into folk song.” If folk song this is, it’s folk of great idiosyncrasy, where vocoded chorales provide atmospheric shading and alto-saxophones drift like cigarette smoke from a David Lynch dream-film. Between the new age synth of “Claudine & Annie”, the ambient swoon of “29 Palms”, Kate Bush-like prog-psych of “Missoula” and gently lapping title-track, Do Easy plays like pop from a parallel world.

Teen Suicide – Bonus EP 12”+MP3 (Run For Cover)

Six songs which were only previously available via Dropbox links from the band’s Facebook page. Limited color vinyl pressing.

This Kind Of Punishment – Radio Silence 7” (Superior Viaduct)

Recorded in Auckland in 1984, these archival tracks capture seminal New Zealand band This Kind Of Punishment’s unique alchemy of poignant melody and four-track claustrophobia.

Titán – Dama LP (ÉPICO/ATP Recordings)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “Welcome to the world of Titan. Dama, their new album, is the latest in a long list of projects keeping the Mexican project busy. With their first new major LP in eleven years, they’ve used the time to recruit a stars like Gary Numan, Egyptian Lover and Siobhan Fahey from Bananarama/Shakespear’s Sister.

Twenty One Pilots – Blurryface Live 3xLP (Fueled By Ramen)

Limited triple picture disc. Recorded live October 18 at Oakland’s Fox Theater on their Emotional Roadshow tour.

Limited color vinyl release. “Looking back on our 20-year existence, we’re proud to say that Polyvinyl has never been defined by a particular genre. From early records that documented the Midwestern emo of American Football, Braid, and Rainer Maria to of Montreal’s mercurial mining of musical styles, Ida’s intimate harmonies, Joan of Arc’s sonic experimentation, STRFKR’s electro-pop, the raucous rock ‘n’ roll of Japandroids and Beach Slang, etc. etc. there’s no predicting what a new Polyvinyl release will sound like — just that it’s something we love and think you will, too. And so, to celebrate this diverse discography, we asked 20 members of the Polyvinyl family past and present to cover a song by one of their labelmates. Fittingly, this led to a slew of beloved tracks being re-imagined in a variety of new and surprising ways. Owen (Mike Kinsella) lends his acoustic guitar picking to Rainer Maria’s electric siren call ‘Ears Ring,’ Braid puts a math-y spin on the surf-inflected pop of Alvvays’ ‘Adult Diversion,’ and Deerhoof covers Xiu Xiu in the style of White Reaper, because why the hell not? The biggest question, though, was how to name such an eclectic collection of music. Turns out the answer was simple: Polyvinyl Plays Polyvinyl.”

Various Artists – Suicide Squad: The Album LP+MP3 (Atlantic)

Released early last August on CD – now available on vinyl. “The villains get their chance to save the day with the release of DC’s cinematic universe answer to Marvel, Suicide Squad. The antihero flick stars hip-hop legends Will Smith and Common, as well as Jared Leto, Margot Robbie, Viola Davis and Ben Affleck, who will reprise his role as the newest Batman. For soundtrack, the music heavily relies on the talents of hip-hop superstars Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Rick Ross, Ty Dolla $ign, G-Eazy, Kevin Gates, Kehlani, Action Bronson, Logic and some guy named Eminem. Familiar acts within the culture such as Skrillex, X Ambassadors and Mark Ronson also make appearances. Regardless of one’s genre preference, it’s also worth noting that Panic! At the Disco’s has been recruited to cover Queen’s timeless classic, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’” – HipHopDX

Neil Young – Official Release Series Discs 8.5-12 5xLP (Reprise)

Young’s Official Release Series continues with the next set of chronological titles, including: Long May You Run (The Stills-Young Band, 1976), American Stars ‘N Bars (1977), Comes A Time (1978), Rust Never Sleeps (1979), and Live Rust (1979). Each pressed on 180gm black vinyl.